Hansal Mehta Calls For Bollywood Reset: Investment In Talent Not Stars

Photo: Instagram

MUMBAI (ANI)- Filmmaker Hansal Mehta has weighed in on the ongoing debate about the state of Hindi cinema, asserting that Bollywood is not in decline but in need of a “reset” to prioritize genuine talent over market-driven stars.

“Hindi cinema needs a reset,” Mehta posted. “The industry isn’t dying; it’s waiting to be disrupted. The problem isn’t that audiences are losing interest, but that investment is being funneled into the safe, the recycled, the formulaic. The future of Hindi cinema lies in betting on raw talent, bold storytelling, and directors who can take a script and direct the hell out of it.”

Mehta highlighted the industry’s over-reliance on stars and formulaic content, emphasizing that “stars don’t necessarily bring audiences; conviction does.” He also criticized the rise of paid publicity, which has led to inflated reputations for some films and celebrities, impacting the industry’s credibility.

“A new generation of actors, filmmakers, and writers is ready to change the game,” Mehta said, calling for producers with vision, platforms that back stories over statistics, and directors who demand authenticity. He stressed that Bollywood’s marketing should focus on authenticity and long-term vision rather than short-term gains.

Recognizing emerging talent, Mehta praised Aadarsh Gourav as a “shape-shifter” and “lambi race ka ghoda (built for the long run),” while calling Vedang Raina a “screen-stealer” for his performance in Jigra. He also acknowledged actors such as Raghav Juyal, Ishaan Khatter, Zahan Kapoor, Sparsh Shrivastava, Aditya Rawal, Abhay Verma, and Lakshya as promising names who can shape Bollywood’s future.

The veteran filmmaker urged producers to invest in meaningful, impactful cinema rather than chasing quick box office numbers. He advised platforms to move beyond algorithms and trust the skill and authenticity of actors and directors.

“The formula is simple: invest in actors, not ‘stars.’ Write without fear. Direct with conviction,” Mehta stated. “Hindi cinema doesn’t need saving—it needs a shift in priorities.”

Mehta, known for his commitment to authentic and hard-hitting narratives, is currently working on Gandhi, a biographical historical drama series starring Pratik Gandhi, expected to premiere later this year.